The P-O-X Theory (Balance Theory) refers to the idea that relationships among one person (P), the other person (O), and an attitude object (X) may be either balanced or unbalanced.

It is a conceptualization advanced by Fritz Heider which assumes that interpersonal relationships can be either balanced (integrated units with elements that fit together without stress) or unbalanced (inconsistent units with elements that conflict with one another). Heider believed that unbalanced relationships create an unpleasant tension that must be relieved by changing some element of the system.

Related Articles

Balance theory at psychology-glossary.com■■■■■■
Balance theory: Balance Theory refers to the formulations of Heider and of Newcomb that specify the relationships . . . Read More
Triangulation at psychology-glossary.com■■■■
Triangulation refers to:; - ; - 1. A process in which two (2) people who are in Conflict involve a third . . . Read More
I–It relationship at psychology-glossary.com■■■■
I–It relationship is a term which according to Buber is an interpersonal relationship in which the . . . Read More
Microsystem at psychology-glossary.com■■■■
Microsystem is defined as the immediate settings with which the child interacts, such as the home, the . . . Read More
Cognitive dissonance at psychology-glossary.com■■■■
Cognitive dissonance refers to tension that arises when one is simultaneously aware of two inconsistent . . . Read More
Melanie Klein (1882 - 1960) at psychology-glossary.com■■■■
- Melanie Klein (1882 - 1960) : Melanie Klein refers to an early child analyst whose theory emphasized . . . Read More
Gestalt theory at psychology-glossary.com■■■■
Gestalt theory refers to an approach in psychology which assumes that people’s overall, subjective . . . Read More
Cognitive response theory at psychology-glossary.com■■■■
The Cognitive response theory refers to a model of persuasion that assumes that the impact of a message . . . Read More
Equity theory at psychology-glossary.com■■■■
The Equity theory refers to a social exchange Theory that asserts that people seek and are most satisfied . . . Read More
Attitude at psychology-glossary.com■■■
Attitude a key concept of social psychology refers to a favorable or unfavorable evaluative reaction . . . Read More